At least 21 people were killed and more than 100 injured late on Sunday after two high-speed trains collided in southern Spain, an incident authorities have described as highly unusual as investigations get underway.
Derailment and collision near Adamuz
According to Spain’s Interior Ministry, a high-speed train travelling from Málaga to Madrid derailed near the town of Adamuz. The train crossed onto an adjacent track, where it collided with another service travelling from Madrid to Huelva.
Emergency services were immediately deployed to the scene, with rescue crews working through the night to assist passengers and evacuate the injured.
Casualties and hospitalisations
Officials confirmed that at least 21 people lost their lives in the crash. Of those injured, 75 were hospitalised, including 15 in very serious condition and five described as being in life-threatening condition. A further 170 passengers sustained minor injuries.
Rail traffic between Madrid and the Andalusia region has been suspended, while authorities assess the safety of the network.
Operator and government response
Iryo, the company operating the train that initially derailed, said in a statement that it “deeply regrets what has happened” and has activated all emergency protocols, working closely with the competent authorities. The company confirmed that around 300 passengers were on board at the time of the accident.
Spain’s Transport Minister, Óscar Puente, said the high-speed Iryo train involved was relatively new. He noted that the derailment and subsequent collision occurred on a straight stretch of track that had undergone extensive renovation work, completed only in May.
Investigation underway
Describing the incident as “extremely strange”, Puente said it was too early to explain the cause of the derailment. He added that a full investigation is expected to clarify what led to the crash.
Authorities have not yet released further details, as inquiries continue.